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If you’re not aware of these details, your Bali trip (Indonesia) may be filled with complications instead of beautiful memories.
Top 6 Things to Remember When Traveling to Bali
1. Dress modestly when visiting temples
The people of Bali dress modestly and behave courteously. To avoid unwanted attention, visitors should remember to wear long-sleeve shirts or t-shirts when visiting temples. The waist and legs should be covered with a sarong or cloth. You may also replace high heels with flat shoes or sandals.
2. Avoid using your left hand to hand or touch anything
In Bali, people do not use toilet paper but instead wash with water, typically with their left hand. As the left hand is considered less clean, it should not be used to touch others, especially temple statues, nor should it be used to give anything to someone else. However, using both hands for these actions is highly respected.
Additionally, avoid pointing with your index finger, touching others' heads, stepping on offerings, and women should refrain from visiting temples during their “difficult days.”
3. Be Cautious When Swimming in the Sea
The crystal-clear beaches with their long stretches of white sand are the main reason many tourists visit Bali. However, keep in mind that the waters here are offshore and often deep in many areas. When swimming, always pay attention to the red flags. Never swim too close to these zones as they can be dangerous. These areas may have underwater currents or submerged rocks that pose a risk.
Additionally, Bali has a consistently high average temperature, so visitors should bring sunscreen, an umbrella, a wide-brimmed hat, and preferably a light jacket to wear over swimwear to protect their skin from harsh sunlight.
4. Don't Get Too Friendly with the Monkeys
Monkeys are a common sight on Bali, but don’t be fooled by their cute appearance. These mischievous creatures can snatch food or personal belongings from tourists. Many visitors have lost items like sunglasses, phone chargers, or jewelry without realizing the monkeys were the culprits. It’s fine to interact with them, but keep your distance and don’t get too friendly to avoid these situations.
5. Be Careful When Traveling on the Road
Tourists should be aware that the traffic in Bali can be chaotic and disorganized. The locals are friendly, but traffic laws are often overlooked. If you’re accustomed to Vietnam’s road system, don’t be surprised if Bali’s traffic seems equally, if not more, disordered. Our advice: if you’re not experienced with driving, it’s best not to rent a car. Use public transportation like buses, taxis, or horse-drawn carts to get around.
6. Take Extra Care While Surfing
Surfing is considered one of the most popular water sports in Bali. The island, surrounded by stunning beaches and boasting strong winds, offers the perfect environment for tourists to enjoy wave riding. However, before you dive in, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the beach and its terrain to ensure there are no large waves, hidden rocks, or potential tsunami risks in the area.
